Top 9 Artificial Intelligence Documentaries in 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various aspects of our lives, from healthcare to entertainment and beyond. Exploring the fascinating world of AI through documentaries can be an eye-opening experience for anyone seeking to understand its potential and implications.

In this article, we present a handpicked selection of the best Artificial Intelligence documentaries that provide an insightful and thought-provoking journey into the realm of artificial intelligence.

Top 9 Artificial Intelligence Documentaries:

1. The Social Dilemma

“The Social Dilemma” is a thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on the critical impact of social media on our society and collective mindset. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, this docudrama explores how social media platforms, driven by AI algorithms, can shape our thinking and profoundly affect the mental well-being of young individuals.

This Social Dilemma AI Documentary features interviews with former employees of tech giants like Google, Apple, and Facebook. Through their insights and experiences, the documentary unveils a darker side of technology, revealing the potential dangers of unregulated social media usage.

This captivating film emphasizes the importance of responsible social media consumption and raises concerns about how artificial intelligence algorithms can manipulate and influence users. It particularly highlights the alarming impact of these algorithms on the mental health of adolescents.

“The Social Dilemma” serves as a wake-up call, urging viewers to critically examine their relationship with social media and the potential consequences of unchecked usage. By exploring the mechanisms behind social media algorithms, the documentary encourages society to reflect on the ethics and implications of AI-driven technologies.

• Published in: September 9, 2020
• IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 34 min

2. AlphaGo

“AlphaGo” is a remarkable documentary that explores the convergence of artificial intelligence and the ancient Chinese game of Go. Directed by Greg Kohs and featuring an original score by Academy Award nominee Hauschka, the film takes viewers on a captivating journey from the academic halls of Oxford to the streets of Bordeaux and the coding terminals of Google DeepMind in London, culminating in an unprecedented seven-day tournament in Seoul.

The documentary centers around the historic DeepMind Challenge Match that took place on March 9, 2016, in South Korea. This momentous event pitted AlphaGo, an AI program developed by DeepMind, against a renowned Go master in a best-of-five-game competition. With hundreds of millions of people worldwide watching, the clash between human expertise and AI technology unfolded, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible.

As the drama of the tournament unfolds, the film raises profound questions about the relationship between artificial intelligence and humanity. It prompts us to ponder what insights AI can offer about a game that has spanned over 3,000 years, and what implications this may have for our understanding of ourselves.

• Published in: April 21, 2017
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 30 min

3. TechnoCalyps

Directed by Frank Theys, “TechnoCalyps” is a thought-provoking three-part documentary that delves into the concept of transhumanism. The film raises critical questions about the future of humanity and explores the potential for using advancements in genetics, robotics, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence to enhance the human body and mind beyond their current limitations.

The film delves into the realms of genetics, robotics, artificial intelligence, bionics, and nanotechnology, exploring how these disciplines intertwine and how they may collectively contribute to human evolution.

Directed with thorough inquiry and accompanied by top-notch experts, “TechnoCalyps” offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex interplay between science, technology, and the future of humanity. It sparks profound discussions about the possibilities, limitations, and ethical implications of using advanced technologies to transcend our current physical and mental forms.

• Published in: May, 2006
• IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 34 min

4. IHUMAN About AI

“IHuman” is a gripping political thriller that delves into the complex world of artificial intelligence, exploring themes of power, social control, and the far-reaching implications of this transformative technology. Directed by Tonje Hessen Schei, this documentary offers unparalleled access to the booming AI industry, providing an inside look at how AI is shaping our lives, society, and future.

Released in 2019, “iHuman” sheds light on the profound impact of AI on various aspects of our existence. The film examines the ways in which AI technology influences our daily lives, social structures, and even the balance of power in society. With interviews featuring experts such as Ilya Sutskever and Jx¼rgen Schmidhuber, “iHuman” provides valuable insights into the development and implementation of AI.

Premiering at the 2019 International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, “iHuman” presents a comprehensive exploration of AI, its impact on society, and the ethical questions it raises. The film invites viewers to reflect on the role of AI in shaping our lives and challenges us to consider the implications of its increasing influence.

• Published in: November 23, 2019
• IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 43 min

5. Hi, A.I

“Hi, A.I.” is a captivating documentary directed by Isabella Willinger and produced by Stefan Kloos in 2019. This thought-provoking film offers an intimate exploration of the interaction between humans and AI robots, shedding light on the development, potential, and coexistence of humans and AI.

Going beyond traditional AI applications, “Hi, A.I.” delves into the realm of humanoid robots, showcasing their ability to extend the boundaries of AI technology. The documentary presents compelling stories, including an older woman in Tokyo who receives the gift of Pepper, a humanoid robot, and an American who embarks on a road trip accompanied by a robot companion.

Through these personal narratives, the film invites viewers to contemplate the intricate relationship between humans and AI. It explores the possibilities and challenges of human-robot interactions, examining the potential for emotional connections and the ethical implications of such relationships.

Directed with finesse by Isabella Willinger, “Hi, A.I.” immerses viewers in a world where AI is embodied in physical form. It sparks contemplation about the boundaries of AI technology and the implications it holds for human society.

• Published in: March 7, 2019
• IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 30 min

6. The Age of A.I.

“The Age of A.I.” is an engaging and informative eight-episode American science documentary streaming television series. Narrated and hosted by renowned actor Robert Downey Jr., the show explores the vast applications of artificial intelligence (AI) across various fields, ranging from health and robotics to space travel, food, disaster prevention, and more. Each episode, with a duration of 30 to 45 minutes, delves into multiple areas of AI implementation under a broader theme.

Throughout the episodes, the series covers a range of related subjects, delving into various aspects of AI’s impact on society. The narrative structure often involves the exploration of different topics within the episode, before circling back to the initial theme during the final section.

With Robert Downey Jr.’s charismatic narration and hosting, the series effectively communicates complex concepts and technological advancements in an accessible and engaging manner. “The Age of A.I.” offers audiences a glimpse into a future where AI plays an increasingly significant role in shaping various aspects of our lives.

• Published in: December 19, 2019
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Duration: 1 hr. 54 min

7. Machine Learning: Living in the Age of AI

“Machine Learning: Living in the Age of AI” is a captivating documentary that explores the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on our lives today. Directed by filmmaker Christopher Cannucciari and produced by WIRED, the film showcases the remarkable ways in which people from various backgrounds are interacting with AI technology.

The documentary highlights how AI has become accessible to a wide range of individuals, from hobbyists to teenagers, who are now developing innovative tech powered by machine learning. It delves into the transformative effects of AI on different segments of society, including schoolchildren, farmers, and senior citizens, demonstrating how rapidly advancing technology can influence their lives.

Throughout the film, a significant portion of the runtime is dedicated to showcasing the diverse areas where AI can benefit mankind. From agriculture to medical care and travel, the documentary emphasizes the positive applications of AI in shaping the future. It paints a compelling picture of how AI can revolutionize these sectors and improve the lives of individuals worldwide.

• Published in: 2019
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
• Duration: 46 min

8. Singularity or Bust

Directed by Raj Dye, “Singularity or Bust” is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the concept of the Technological Singularitya hypothetical event in the future when technological growth becomes exponential and transformative, leading to profound changes in human civilization. The film follows two AI scientists, Goertzel and de Garis, who are at the forefront of developing super-intelligent machines that they believe will play a crucial role in this coming revolution.

Throughout the documentary, Goertzel and de Garis engage in captivating discussions about their work and differing perspectives on the future of artificial intelligence. While both scientists agree that a Technological Singularity is on the horizon, they hold contrasting views on whether humans will survive and thrive in the face of this transformative event.

This top AI documentary provides viewers with a deep dive into the theories and concepts surrounding the Technological Singularity. The documentary explores the potential implications of super-intelligent machines and the challenges they may pose to human existence. It prompts profound questions about the nature of consciousness, the limits of human intelligence, and the potential risks and benefits of advanced AI systems.

• Published in: 2012
• IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
• Duration: 47 min

9. Hyper Evolution: Rise of the Robots

“Hyper Evolution: Rise of the Robots” is a captivating documentary that delves into the world of robotics, exploring the significant advancements made by leading robot-makers and their pioneering machines. The film sheds light on the evolutionary leaps that have shaped the field of robotics and introduces viewers to the most advanced robot descendants to date. Its central question revolves around the potential scenario of machines designed to enhance our lives becoming our greatest rivals.

The documentary features two prominent experts with differing perspectives. Professor Danielle George MBE, an esteemed engineer and advocate for robots, provides insights into the potential benefits and positive impact of robots on society. On the other hand, Dr. Ben Garrod, an evolutionary biologist and robo-sceptic, brings a critical lens to the discussion, exploring the potential drawbacks and challenges posed by the rise of robots.

Throughout the film, Professor George and Dr. Garrod embark on an exploration of whether the rapid evolution of robots will hinder or assist the progress of humanity. They delve into the profound implications of advanced robotics and examine the delicate balance between the potential benefits and risks associated with integrating robots into various aspects of our lives.

• Published in: 2017
• IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
• Duration: 2 hrs

Conclusion:

The AI documentaries provide valuable insights into the world of AI, covering a range of topics such as societal impact, human-AI interactions, technological convergence, and the potential of AI to benefit various industries. They present a balanced view, addressing both the positive aspects of AI and the ethical considerations associated with its development.

Furthermore, some documentaries delve into the concept of Technological Singularity, prompting contemplation about the future of humanity in the face of rapid technological advancements.

Collectively, these documentaries serve as a reminder of the profound influence AI has on our lives and the importance of responsible and ethical AI development.

FAQs on AI Documentaries

1. What are some popular AI documentaries? 
There are several popular documentaries that explore the world of artificial intelligence, covering topics such as social media’s impact, human-AI interactions, technological singularity, and more.

2. Do these documentaries discuss the implications of AI on society? 
Yes, many of these documentaries delve into the societal implications of artificial intelligence, including its effects on mental health, power dynamics, human enhancement, and the potential transformation of various industries.

3. Are there any documentaries that focus on the convergence of different technologies? 
Yes, some documentaries examine the convergence of technologies like genetics, robotics, nanotechnology, and AI, discussing how these advancements could shape the future and raise ethical and metaphysical questions.

4. Do these documentaries showcase the positive aspects of AI? 
Many documentaries aim to present a balanced view, showcasing both the potential benefits and risks of AI. They highlight the positive applications of AI in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and travel, while also exploring the ethical considerations involved.